Introduction to Virtual Worlds
Merging or creating recent worlds with virtual worlds will not be only a Twenty first-century technology. The concept of virtual reality has been around for nearly a century, with the earliest attempts at creating technology depicting augmented and virtual reality dating back to the Twenties. As we transitioned into the mid- to late twentieth century, AR & VR technology has skyrocketed, making products equipped with this technology available for purchase at a wide range of retailers.
The Early Days of AR & VR
The first head-mounted display (HMD) was developed in 1960 by Morton Heilg, a cinematographer and VR pioneer. The Telesphere Mask used stereoscopic technology, 3D imagery, widescreen vision, and stereo sound to simulate a virtual reality for the user. This was a groundbreaking invention that paved the way in which for future developments in AR & VR technology.
The Evolution of AR & VR Devices
In 1977, the primary wired glove, often called the Sayre Glove, was invented by scientists on the Electronic Visualization laboratory on the University of Illinois. This glove was equipped with AR/VR technology, allowing users to interact with virtual objects in a more immersive way. In 1982, the Power Glove and Dataglove were introduced, using optical flex sensor and ultrasonic and magnetic hand position tracking technology. These gloves were a big improvement over earlier models and provided a more realistic virtual experience.
AR & VR in Gaming and Beyond
The introduction of AR & VR technology in arcade machines and video games marked a big turning point within the industry. Companies like Nintendo and Sega began to develop games that utilized this technology, providing users with a more immersive gaming experience. NASA also got involved, using AR & VR technology to create full-body suit simulations for astronauts. This technology has also been utilized in various other fields, including education, healthcare, and business.
Modern AR & VR Products
Today, there are several AR and VR products available available on the market. The Google Cardboard offers an inexpensive virtual reality simulation, retailing for $15. Gamers have the choice of the Sony Playstation VR add-on, and Samsung, HTC, and Microsoft have similar options for virtual reality headsets. These products have made AR & VR technology more accessible to most people, allowing users to experience virtual worlds within the comfort of their very own homes.
The Future of AR & VR
While the long run of virtual reality is unknown, AR & VR is changing the way in which we interact with the world. The technology has merged into education, providing students with virtual field trips, language immersion, and game-based learning. In business, it allows for real-time, hands-on collaboration on projects, in addition to virtual and augmented assistance in field service work. In healthcare, these technologies provide accessible therapies and enhance physician training. As AR & VR technology continues to evolve, we will expect to see much more revolutionary applications in the long run.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the concept of virtual reality has been around for nearly a century, with significant developments in AR & VR technology through the years. From the early days of the Telesphere Mask to the trendy AR & VR products available today, this technology has come a good distance. As we glance to the long run, it’s exciting to think concerning the potential applications of AR & VR technology and the way it can proceed to vary the way in which we interact with the world. With its potential to revolutionize industries and improve our every day lives, AR & VR technology is an exciting and rapidly evolving field that is price keeping track of.
